Fiio FH7S VS Hercules Audio Noah

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Hercules Audio Noah arrives with a premium package: a metallic, cozy shell with a secure anti-tragus catch, a gold nozzle, and a genuinely excellent 4.4 mm cable (red/black channel markers, smooth chin slider, solid Y-split). Accessories are thoughtful—tips, cleaning brush, a USB-C DAC, and a plush case—making the whole experience feel dialed-in and durable. Fit is easy, build is handsome, and the cable quality stands out as one of the better stock options at this price.

Sonically, Noah brings a vocal-forward presentation with a clean, punchy, and hard-hitting bass shelf; it’s engaging, rich, and fun. There’s a notable 1 kHz rise and energetic upper-mids that push presence, while treble stays polite—good clarity, but not the last word in sparkle/air or micro-detail. Think “audiophile-style tuning” rather than meta-neutral: more drive and dynamism than shimmer. Compared with peers, it carries some Elysian-style DNA (cleaner and more exciting than Pilgrim/Noir, less dazzling up top than Apostle/Annihilator), and versus the hyped YU9 it swaps treble dazzle for meatier bass impact, making the two strong complements.

Value depends on region: list sits around $400, but tariffs and shipping can push it above $500 in the U.S., which tempers the bang-for-buck. As a result, it’s an easy recommendation for those seeking a mid/bass-forward, vocal-centric signature—demo at a show if possible, or consider the used market for a sharper deal. Bass is a 10/10 with satisfying slam, the overall presentation is lively and majestic, and while treble finesse is merely good, the tuning’s energy and musical drive make Noah a memorable, hype-worthy listen for the right ears.

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The FiiO FH7S comes in at around $400 and feels like a course correction after the troubled FH5s. Build is robust with an angular, all-metal shell and a handsome—if stiff—stock cable that supports swappable terminations (3.5 mm and 4.4 mm). Accessory loadout is generous: SpinFit tips, FiiO’s new grippy silicone tips, foams, a tip case, tuning filters, and an MMCX tool. Comfort is very good with easy insertion and medium-sized shells, though fit security is only so-so, benefiting from slightly longer SpinFit tips. The included filters make measurable but minor changes; “balanced” proves the safest bet for most use.

Sonically, the FH7S is a bassy hybrid tuned somewhere between warm V and warm neutral: thick low end, well-extended treble, and upper mids that sit close to Super* Review’s preferred target. The story here is the excellent treble—smooth, airy, and detailed—plus a wide headstage; a new notch filter appears to curb sibilance effectively on hot recordings. The downside is the bass quality: abundant in quantity but soft on attack and a bit bloated/smeary (“nightclub” vibe), which can blur momentum even if it doesn’t cloud that superb top end. Versus peers, Dunu’s Vulcan offers the better bass texture but duller, clackier treble and weaker imaging, while the Mangird T2 is the most neutral/easy listen with excellent fit yet less excitement overall. As a package, FH7S reads as a redemption for FiiO’s hybrids—treble and stage are standout—and ultimately earns 4/5 stars despite the swampy low end.

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Hercules Audio’s Noah targets the mid-tier with a 1DD+3BA setup around $400, and the physical package impresses: a premium, crush-resistant case, Divinus Velvet ear tips, a Type-C dongle, and an all-metal black-and-gold shell that looks luxe and fits comfortably for long sessions. The four-core black cable feels solid with quality connectors and a working chin slider, even if it isn’t the softest. Sonically, the Noah aims for a fun, engaging listen via a relaxed treble, but bass hype meets reality—there’s strong sub-bass extension while mid-bass weight and texture come up short, so punch and grit aren’t at “basshead” levels.

The midrange is the star: forward enough to keep vocals clear without sounding shouty, though a slightly lean lower-mid can thin out male voices. Treble stays smooth yet extended, ideal for treble-sensitive listeners (treble-heads may want more bite). Technicalities hold their own for the price—good layering, imaging, and micro-detail, with a soundstage that’s a touch above average. Versus the YU9/CH it’s smoother and more fun (that set is brighter and more clinical), while Dusk Analog (DSP) runs warmer with bass some may prefer but even more laid-back mids/treble; for a true bass fix, Kiwi Ears Punch remains a go-to. Overall, Noah is enjoyable with standout build and accessories, best for those who like sub-bass focus + relaxed treble; tuning quirks keep it from a higher nod, settling on a two-star recommendation for value.